Cover yourself in the sun

Cover yourself in the sun

If your summer holiday is your first trip to the continent since last year, get yourself a new European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) which replaces the now defunct E111 form. The card will secure you free or reduced cost medical treatment in EU countries plus Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Liechtenstein.

The easiest way to get a card is to apply online at ehic.org.uk. Otherwise, call 0845 606 2030 or pick up an application form at your local post office.

But don't make the mistake of thinking an EHIC negates your need for travel insurance - it only covers you for basic healthcare in participating countries and, of course, gives you no protection at all against the cost of losing baggage or valuables while away, or having to cancel or cut short a holiday.

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It's worth shopping around for the best travel insurance deal rather than plumping for the policy offered by your travel agent or tour operator who are likely to charge you over the odds. Similarly, don't settle for policies from household name providers when you are likely to get equally comprehensive but cheaper deals from less well-known names. And if you travel abroad more than once or twice a year, you're likely to save money by buying an annual multi-trip policy.

We've looked at comprehensive policies, all of which include £2m of personal liability cover plus cover for baggage. Note that all benefits quoted are subject to an excess (the first part of each claim that a policyholder has to pay themselves) of typically £50-£100.

There are other ways to cut costs. If your household contents policy covers your possessions if they are lost or stolen outside the home, you could choose a cheaper travel policy which does not include baggage cover.

Always read the small print to see that all your needs are covered and check for unwelcome exclusions. Ideally, travel policies should also provide an emergency helpline number that you can call at any time from abroad.

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